Composer

:

James P. Johnson

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Rag

Compose Date

:

1914

Average_duration

:

3:05

"Carolina Shout" is a classic jazz piano piece composed by James P. Johnson in 1921. It is considered one of the earliest examples of stride piano, a style of jazz piano playing that emerged in the 1920s and was characterized by a left-hand bass line that alternated between low and high notes, while the right hand played syncopated melodies and improvisations. The piece was first recorded by Johnson himself in 1921 and quickly became a popular tune among jazz musicians of the time. It was also featured in the 1929 Broadway musical "Hot Chocolates," which helped to popularize the song even further. "Carolina Shout" is a fast-paced, energetic piece that is typically played at a brisk tempo. It is composed in the key of C and features a catchy melody that is repeated throughout the piece. The left-hand bass line is a defining characteristic of the piece, with Johnson alternating between low and high notes to create a driving rhythm that propels the music forward. The piece is divided into several distinct sections, or movements, each with its own unique melody and rhythm. The first section features a lively, syncopated melody that is played in the right hand, while the left hand provides a steady bass line. The second section is more subdued, with a slower tempo and a more melodic, lyrical melody. The third section returns to the fast-paced, syncopated style of the first section, with a new melody that builds to a frenzied climax. Overall, "Carolina Shout" is a classic example of early jazz piano playing, showcasing the virtuosic skills of James P. Johnson and the innovative style of stride piano. Its catchy melody and driving rhythm have made it a popular tune among jazz musicians for nearly a century, and it remains a beloved classic of the genre to this day.

More....